TCI News

Letter to the Editor: A Cry for Help in Turks and Caicos

Published

5 years ago

June 15, 2020

#TurksandCaicosIslands – June 15, 2020 — I am writing this article with a heavy heart and with tears streaming down my face. I am an active member of the TCI Bariatric Group that was formed on WhatsApp approximately one year and one month ago by a number of TC Islanders. This group was initially formed by three ladies and to date we have twenty seven members comprising of both male and female.

For those of you who do not understand the term Bariatric, it is simply means the medical treatment of obesity which is being seriously overweight and a number of us have been deemed medically morbidly obese.

We as a group decided to put pen to paper and to bring our issues to the public to see if there are any persons with ample resource who will be able to assist us in any way possible. Some of us have been in constant battles with the government for way over three and a half years, yet to no avail. We are being turned around and toyed with as if we are not humans. We were told that if we got referrals from the doctors, that our issues would be place before the cabinet and that it should not be a problem for us to be given the bariatric procedure which is so badly needed to save all of our lives, so we all went and got numerous of referrals, some exceeding as much as five. We followed the necessary procedures, only to be told that are referrals were refused because the NHIP Policy does not cover this procedure and that it is deemed a cosmetic procedure. This here was a kick in our gut because collectively, we knew of persons who received breast augmentations, tummy tucks and I believe even Botox; all of these were cosmetic.

However, the breast augmentations and tummy tuck surgeries were to alleviate pain on the breast thus rendering them medically necessary. Well we have members in out group with a variety of life threatening ailments and who are immobile, such ailments are lymphedema, osteoarthritis in both knees and their hips, asthma, edema, sleep apnea, angina, blood pressure and the list goes on and on, so if these conditions does not warrant immediate action and deemed to be medically necessary then what is?

We need this surgery to live and I am afraid that if some of us don’t get it soon there could be possible fatalities.

We in this group are all TC Islanders paying our contributions to the NHIP Scheme from its inception and now when we need them the most they have turned their backs on us. They refuse to help us.

We have written to the Minister, the Premier and even to the Governor with our cried and have been disappointed, we haven’t received not one reply from either person. Had we been in any other country we would have been approved for and already given this surgery, and the bad part about it is that the surgery only cost roughly $10,500 in the states and Cayman. Are we not worth $10,500?

Many of you are probably saying it’s only $10,500 why don’t we pay for it ourselves? Well this is because we cannot afford it or we would not have been waiting on government to save our lives and to help us to live longer.

We have spoken to Dr. Maitland and Dr. Bewaji numerous times and have already appeal our decisions, only to be let down with refusals. We need help, we need this government to live up to the promise made to us. We were told that monies have already been budgeted for these procedures from last year budget and as of today nothing. Some of us have been told over two years bow that they are amending the policy to include this procedure under the NHIP Scheme, and to date, nothing yet. Some of us have been given month to month promises for the last three years that hopefully we would be out of here in a few weeks time to a month to undergo surgery, and to date, nothing yet.

Are we not humans? Do we not have a right to live? And what is so hurtful is that this procedure has been done in the past under the PNP Administration, where they sent off a number of TC Islanders to the States for this procedure. So this is nothing new and I really cannot fathom why we are being treated as less than humans? Why all the red tape? Why all the refusals? Why all the hiccups?

We are literally sick and tired of being sick and tired. This run around is not only tiresome and disappointing but it makes us feel as if we are being taken for a granted and as if we are insignificant.

Persons on the outside would look and say, oh go and exercise you all to lazy, or stop eating, you all too greedy and frankly that is not the case. Many of us cannot exercise because of our knees, our backs or something else, and really food is not an issue. It is simply a metabolism issue, a genetic issue or some other kind of medical issue.

I have seen bigger countries facing more serious issues than the TCI, that have amended and approve policies quicker than this, and especially one of this nature. This is because they take health seriously which NHIP obviously doesn’t.

God knows we have been patient and remain to be but this is ridiculous, enough is finally enough and we refuse to sit any longer whilst our lives are being toyed with. Every country we have contacted is offering this surgery free of cost to locals once persons meet the medical requirements, what is wrong with our Country?

You have persons in the TCI Bariatric chat if you were to hear their stories you would cry and probably opt to pay for their surgeries out of pocket. That is how much pain we go through on a daily basis. We pray that this article puts some heat under NHIP so that this process is finalized and we and persons similar to us can get the help that we so badly need.

It is highly logical that having this surgery now will in the future prevent the government for spending more on costly surgeries, such as back surgery, knee and hip replacement surgeries. We really do not understand why they cannot comprehend this? Any government in their rightfully thinking mind would consider this factor and weigh all the pros and cons, and once that is done, there is no way possible that this surgery should be refused.

I write this letter with tears coming down my face because of the pain we are in on a daily basis and have to conceal from the world just so that they will keep the negativity to themselves.

May the good Lord help us and continue to bless these beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands.

Statement from the TCI Bariatric Group

Related Topics:#bariatricgrouptci #magneticmedianews #medicallyobses #tcinews #turksandcaicoshealth #turksandcaicoshospitals NHIP

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News

TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS BOOSTS SECURITY RESOURCES

Published

3 days ago

May 16, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

JOINT PRESS STATEMENT

FROM THE GOVERNOR’S OFFICE AND

THE OFFICE OF THE PREMIER AND PUBLIC POLICY

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 15^th May 2025 – Today, Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam and the Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick OBE attended a ceremony, held at the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF) Marine Branch, to commission two new vessels, which have been provided to the Turks and Caicos Islands as part of a joint initiative between the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the UK Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), the Governor’s Office and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

The two vessels, funded by the FCDO Border Security Programme, will form part of the Royal Turks and Caicos Island Police Force’s Marine Branch, complementing their existing fleet. The vessels enhance our capability to be agile in our maritime law enforcement efforts and strengthen our emergency response search and rescue capability. They will be named Sea Challenger and Sea Contender reflecting the spirit of the RTCIPF’s operations in keeping the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands safe. The RNLI will provide training in the operations of these vessels later this month

At the commissioning ceremony, Her Excellency the Governor and the Honourable Premier also announced the arrival of regional resources to assist the RTCIPF:

This afternoon, 10 tactical officers from the Barbados Police Service arrived in Providenciales to provide strategic and operational security assistance to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Upon arrival, the officers will undergo an initial orientation before being sworn in as Special Constables of the RTCIPF. Members of the team will be deployed to support tactical operations. A further deployment of 30 tactical officers from another RSS Member State is expected before the end of the month. As part of the agreement, the RTCIPF will be provided with expert surge support officers to augment the existing cadre and develop capability.
Also, this month, CARICOM IMPACS will be in the Turks and Caicos Islands to deliver the first phase of a comprehensive Intelligence training programme to members of the RTCIPF, TCI Regiment, Border Force, HM Prison, Financial Intelligence Unit and the National Security Secretariat.

This package of regional security assistance follows the attendance of Her Excellency the Governor and Honourable Minister Arlington Musgrove at the 28th Meeting of The Council for National Security and Law Enforcement (CONSLE) in November 2024, and active discussions by the Turks and Caicos Islands Government with the Regional Security System (RSS) and its Member States.

The security assistance will significantly bolster national security and local law enforcement by enabling collaboration, resource sharing and strategic planning. More specifically, this will include:

Joint Operations;
Intelligence Sharing;
Training and Capacity Building;
Strengthening Border Security; and Combating Organized Crime Networks.

The Hon. Premier Charles Washington Misick OBE said:

The commissioning of these police vessels represents a critical step forward in strengthening our national security and safeguarding the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am grateful to the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office for their partnership in providing these vessels, supporting my Government’s commitment to equip law enforcement with the tools they need to protect our borders and uphold the rule of law.

The Government welcomes the deployment of ten additional police officers from Barbados as part of our ongoing strategic efforts to bolster national security and enhance the operational capacity of our law enforcement agencies. This reinforcement solidifies the TCI’s regional collaboration framework and underscores the shared objectives within the Caribbean toward addressing transnational crime, ensuring public order, and supporting intelligence-led policing. We are grateful to the Government and Commissioner of Police of Barbados for this timely support and reaffirm our commitment to maintaining a coordinated, regional approach to security and crime prevention.

Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam said:

Today marks a significant step forward in our national security strategy, as we commission two new maritime police vessels provided by the UK and welcome a contingent of tactical police officers from the Barbados Police Service. We are grateful to the FCDO, the Government of Barbados, Commissioner of Police of Barbados and the RSS for their valued support. These developments – alongside the launch of a targeted intelligence training programme with CARICOM IMPACS and a further regional deployment of 30 tactical officers expected before the end of the month – reflect not only the strength of our enduring partnerships and regional solidarity in tackling shared threats, but also the deliberate and determined efforts of the National Security Council to underpin law enforcement efforts and enhance our national defence posture. This is more than an operational boost – it is a step change in how we confront crime, secure our borders and safeguard our citizens.

News

Turks and Caicos Golf Association Dominates Caribbean Classic for Historic Three-Peat as Champions

Published

4 days ago

May 16, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic – History was made on the greens of Casa de Campo as the Turks and Caicos Islands Golf Association (TCIGA) secured an unprecedented third consecutive championship at the 29th annual Caribbean Classic Golf Tournament, held from April 29th to May 2nd, 2025. This remarkable achievement underscores a significant surge in the prominence of golf within the Turks and Caicos Islands, a success largely attributed to the strategic team assembled by Sean Wilson, Head Professional at the esteemed Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club.

A strong contingent of 48 golfers proudly represented the TCIGA, competing fiercely across both the Men’s and Women’s divisions. Their enthusiastic participation was duly rewarded with victories in the men team category.

Hon. Rachel Taylor, Minister of Sports, Turks and Caicos Islands stated “On behalf of the Government and the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, I extend heartfelt congratulations to our national golf team for their outstanding achievement at the 29th Caribbean Golf Classic. Securing a third consecutive victory is a testament to the team’s dedication, skill, and the growing stature of golf in our nation. This accomplishment not only brings pride to our islands but also inspires our youth to pursue excellence in sports. Let us celebrate this momentous victory and look forward to continued success in the years to come.”

“This three-peat victory truly reflects the growing passion and increasing involvement in golf within the Turks and Caicos,” commented TCIGA President Fraser Dods. “To bring home the coveted George Noon Cup for the third year running, after nearly three decades of competition, fills us with immense pride for Turks and Caicos golf.”

The team’s dominant performance stemmed from unwavering determination and exceptional play across all flights and categories. The men’s team clinched the prestigious Robert Grell Trophy. This near clean sweep across all team divisions highlights the burgeoning depth of talent within the TCIGA membership.

The Caribbean Classic, organized annually by the Caribbean Golf Association, unites golfers from its twelve member countries. The tournament features both individual and team competitions, with each participating nation fielding an unlimited number of players who compete over three days, playing eighteen holes each day.

Having captured the George Noon Cup in 2023 for the first time in 27 years of participation in 2023, 2024 and now again in 2025, Team Turks and Caicos once again amassed the highest overall points, solidifying their reign as champions. This three consecutive victory marks a significant milestone for sports in the Turks and Caicos Islands and for the burgeoning golf community.

Individual Stars Shine Brightly

Beyond the collective triumph, individual brilliance shone through from several TCI golfers. Andrea Todd delivered a stellar performance to win the ladies’ Flight 1. On the men’s side, Kurt Rivers, Jamie Gray, Dale Hodgkins, Simon Dobbs, Steven Kendrew, and Mark Fulford all showcased impressive form. Their individual successes were crucial in bolstering the team’s overall victory.

“This incredible team performance speaks volumes about the dedication and talent we have within the TCIGA,” stated Mark Fulford, Vice President of the TCIGA. “To witness such commitment and skill across all divisions is truly inspiring and signals a very bright future for golf in the Turks and Caicos.”

Looking to the Future: Building on a Legacy of Success

Jarrett Forbes, TCI Director of Sports, expressed his optimism for the future of the sport. “This victory underscores the tremendous potential for golf in the Turks and Caicos,” he noted. “We are eager to encourage more young people in our islands to embrace this fantastic sport.”

Sean Wilson, Head Golf Professional at Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club, echoed this sentiment. “This is a truly monumental achievement for TCI golf,” he said. “Bringing home trophies in two out of three divisions is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the TCIGA executive and all its players.”

Special thanks goes to Royal Turks and Caicos Golf Club, and the hard work of golf professionals

Ashley Gravett and Justin Simmons in bringing so many more new golfers into the sport.

President Fraser further commented that:

“Summer kids golf camps are a great way for children to receive a fun introduction to the game. These summer clinics run in June and July and all are welcome to attend and get a taste of the fastest growing sport in TCI”

This third consecutive victory at the Caribbean Classic establishes a new and impressive legacy for golf in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The TCIGA is managed by a dedicated volunteer executive committee comprising Fraser Dods (President), Mark Fulford (Vice President), Denise Douglas (Secretary), Dale Hodgkins (Treasurer), Andrea Todd, and Roberto Stipa. Through their collective efforts and the growing enthusiasm of TCI golfers, the future of the sport in the region looks exceptionally promising.

The Caribbean Classic remains a highlight on the Caribbean Golf calendar, bringing together amateur golfers from twelve nations, including the Turks and Caicos, Puerto Rico, Guadalupe, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Dominican Republic, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Martinique, St Lucia, and the USVI.

Crime

Police Investigate Fatal Shooting in Kew Town, Second Man also hit

Published

5 days ago

May 15, 2025

Deandrea Hamilton

Deandrea Hamiltonian

Editor

May 15, 2024 – Police in the Turks and Caicos Islands are investigating a double shooting that occurred late Saturday night, resulting in one fatality and one man injured.

According to a statement from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF), the first shooting was reported around 11:12 p.m. on May 10 in the Kew Town area. Officers responded to gunshots heard near Harmony Close and discovered a man suffering from gunshot wounds at Cerasie Close. Emergency medical services were called, but the victim—identified as 33-year-old Cyrildo Smith of Kew Town—was pronounced dead at 12:16 a.m.

While securing the scene, police located a second man nearby who had also sustained injuries. He was transported to a medical facility for treatment. His condition was not disclosed in the statement.

Shortly after, at approximately 11:25 p.m., officers responded to a second report of gunfire at Ralph Close in the Blue Hills area. There, they found a 20-year-old man inside a house with apparent gunshot wounds. He was also taken for medical treatment. Authorities did not release his name or details on his condition.

Police have not confirmed whether the two incidents are connected and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or using the P3 mobile app. The Serious Crime Unit is also reachable at 231-1842.

The RT&CIPF extended condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Smith.